Book of Saltwater Species - Planet Sea Fishing · Distinguishing features: The black-mouthed dogfish is a small member of the shark family and has the typical shark shape. It has

Book of Saltwater Species

Cartiligeous Species ................................................................................................................................ 5

Boney Species ......................................................................................................................................... 6

Bull Huss - Scyliorhinus stellaris ............................................................................................................. 7

Blackmouthed Dogfish - Galeus melastomus ......................................................................................... 9

Lesser Spotted Dogfish - Scyliorhinus canicula .................................................................................... 11

Shark, Blue - Prionace glauca ................................................................................................................ 13

Shark, Porbeagle - Lamna nasus .......................................................................................................... 15

Smoothhound, Starry - Mustelus asterias ........................................................................................... 17

Smooth hound - Mustelus mustelus ..................................................................................................... 19

Spurdog - Squalus acanthias ................................................................................................................. 21

Tope - Galeorhinus galeus .................................................................................................................... 23

Common Skate - Raja batis ................................................................................................................... 25

Ray, Blonde - Raja brachvara ................................................................................................................ 27

Ray, Cuckoo - Raja naevus .................................................................................................................... 29

Ray, Small-eyed - Raja microocellata .................................................................................................... 30

Ray, Spotted - Raia montagui ................................................................................................................ 32

Thornback Ray - Raja clavata ................................................................................................................ 34

Ray, Undulate - Raja undulata .............................................................................................................. 36

Stingray - Dasyatis pastinaca................................................................................................................. 38

Angler Fish - Loahius Piscatorius ........................................................................................................... 40

Bass – Dicentrachus labrax ................................................................................................................... 42

Black Bream - Spondyliosom cantharus ................................................................................................ 44

Couch’s Bream - Sparus pagrus ............................................................................................................. 46

Bream, Gilthead - Sparus aurata ........................................................................................................... 48

Bream, Red - Pagellus bogaraveo ......................................................................................................... 50

Ray’s Bream - Brama brama ................................................................................................................. 51

Wolf fish (Catfish) - Anarhichas lupus ................................................................................................... 52

Coalfish - Pollachius virens ................................................................................................................... 54

Cod – Gadus morhua ............................................................................................................................ 56

Conger - Conger conger ........................................................................................................................ 59

Common Eel - Anguilla anguilla ............................................................................................................ 61

Garfish - Belone belone ........................................................................................................................ 63

Gurnard, Grey - Eutrigla gurnardus ...................................................................................................... 65

Gurnard, Red - Aspitriela caculus ......................................................................................................... 67

Gurnard, Tub - Eutrigla gurnardus ....................................................................................................... 69

Haddock - Melanogrammus aeglefinus ................................................................................................ 71

Herring - Clupeid harangues ................................................................................................................. 75

John Dory – Zeus faber ......................................................................................................................... 77

Ling - Molva molva ................................................................................................................................ 79

Mackerel - Scomber scombrus ............................................................................................................. 81

Mullet, Golden Grey - Liza aurata ........................................................................................................ 83

Mullet, Thin-lipped Grey - Liza ramada ................................................................................................. 86

Pollack - Pollachius pollachius ............................................................................................................... 87

Poor-cod - Trisopterus minutus ............................................................................................................ 89

Pouting - Trisopterus luscus .................................................................................................................. 90

Red Mullet - Mullus surmuletus ............................................................................................................ 92

Greater Sandeel - Hyperoplus launceolatus ......................................................................................... 93

Scad - Trachurus trachurus ................................................................................................................... 95

Sea Scorpion, Short Spined - Myoxocephalus scorpius ........................................................................ 97

Sea Scorpion, Long Spined - Taurulus bubalis ....................................................................................... 99

Tusk - Brosme brosme ........................................................................................................................ 100

Trigger Fish - Balistes capriscus ........................................................................................................... 102

Greater Weever – Trachinus draco .................................................................................................... 104

Whiting - Merlangius merlangus ......................................................................................................... 106

Ballan Wrasse – Labrus bergylta ........................................................................................................ 107

Corkwing Wrasse - Symphodus melops .............................................................................................. 109

Cuckoo Wrasse - Labrus mixtus .......................................................................................................... 111

Goldsinny – Ctentolabrus rupestris ................................................................................................... 113

Rock Cook – Centrolabrus exoletus ................................................................................................... 114

Brill - Scophthalmus rhombus ............................................................................................................. 116

Dab – Limanda limanda ...................................................................................................................... 118

Flounder - Pleuronectes flesus ........................................................................................................... 120

Halibut – Hippoglossus hippoglossus ................................................................................................. 122

Lemon Sole – Microstomus kitt ......................................................................................................... 124

Long Rough Dab – Hippoglossoides platessoides .............................................................................. 126

Megrim - Lepidorhombus whiffiagonis ............................................................................................... 128

Plaice - Pleuronectes platessa ............................................................................................................ 129

Sole - Solea solea ................................................................................................................................ 131

Turbot - Scophthalmus maximus ........................................................................................................ 133

Cartiligeous Species Sharks

Skates and Rays

http://www.planetseafishing.com/?URL=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.planetseafishing.com%2Fspecies%2FSharks%2F%22++title%3D%22Sharks�

http://www.planetseafishing.com/?URL=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.planetseafishing.com%2Fspecies%2FSkates-and-Rays%2F%22++title%3D%22Skates-and-Rays�

Boney Species Round Fish

Flatfish

Bull Huss - Scyliorhinus stellaris

Distinguishing features: A small bull huss can look at first glance like a lesser spotted dogfish and is

also known as the greater spotted dogfish. However the nasal flaps in the Huss are clearly separated

and the rear of the anal fin is in line with the front of the first dorsal. The back and sides are a sandy

brown with large brown patches and the underside is a creamy white. Occasionally the back and sides

may take on a grey hue.

Size: The bull huss can reach lengths of 155 cm and a weight in excess of 10 kg. It’s one of the few

larger species where the shore angler can expect to catch fish as big as the boat angler.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/bullhuss.htm

Distribution: The huss is much less common than the LSD and is most prolific at the southern end of

the east North Atlantic around the English Channel and the south west of Ireland. Lives on the sea bed

at any depth from the shoreline out to 60 metres and inhabits rough or rocky ground.

Food: A wide selection of crustaceans, molluscs and small fish form the bulk of the diet of a Bull Huss.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/bullhuss.htm�

Baits: Mackerel head and guts are a favourite bait but strips and flappers will also take fish. Squid and

cuttlefish can also be effective.

English Latin Norwegian Swedish Danish German French

Bull Huss Scyliorhinus stellaris

Storflekket rødhai

Storfläckig rödhaj

Storplettet rødhaj

Grossgefleckter Katzenhai

Not available

Dutch Spanish Italian Russian Icelandic Portuguese

Not available Not available Not available Zvjózdtsjataja koshátsj’ja akúla

Flekkjaháfur Not available

Bull Huss Nasal Flaps

Lesser Spotted Dogfish Nasal Flaps

Blackmouthed Dogfish - Galeus melastomus

Distinguishing features: The black-mouthed dogfish is a small member of the shark family and has

the typical shark shape. It has two small, equally sized dorsal fins and a large upper lobe to the tail fin.

The light brown colour on the belly merges into a darker brown on the sides and back interspersed

with rounded, brown patches. Not surprisingly the inside of its mouth is black.

Size: This dogfish can reach lengths of 90cm and weights of around 2 kg.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/dogfish.htm

Distribution: This dogfish will rarely stray into depths of 50 metres and is most common in depths of

over 200 metres. It tends to prefer areas of soft bottom.

Food: Feeds mainly on bottom living invertebrates, including shrimps and cephalopods, but also hunts

small pelagic fishes as part of its diet.

Baits: Although this fish rarely targeted a strip of fish is the most effective bait.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/dogfish.htm�


Blackmouthed Dogfish

Galeus melastomus Hågjel Hågäl Ringhaj Fleckhai Bardoulin


Hondshaai Bardoulina Bardulin Not available Not available Pata Roxa

Regional Names - Black-mouthed catshark

Lesser Spotted Dogfish - Scyliorhinus canicula

Distinguishing features: This small member of the shark family has a long, low tail fin the lower lobe

of which is under developed. The two dorsal fins are situated towards the tail and the first of these

starts behind the base of the pelvic fin. It can be confused with the Bull Huss however the nasal flap in

the Lesser Spotted Dogfish (LSD) have little or no separation whereas in bull huss the flaps have a

broad interspace. The LSD is generally a sandy brown colour with small dark brown spots but the

predominant colour can vary to a dark brown depending upon its habitat. The underside is a creamy

white.

Size: The LSD is one of the smallest sharks and it’s unlikely that the maximum size will exceed 1.9kg

and normally the fish will be around the 1kg mark.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/dogfishlesserspotted.htm

Distribution: The Lesser Spotted Dogfish will be found over soft bottoms comprising of sand, fine

gravel or mud. It will inhabit waters from 3 to 400 metres with the majority being found at the

shallower end of the range. The LSD is an egg layer and these will be laid in shallow water between

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/dogfishlesserspotted.htm�

November and July. It’s an extremely common fish in the North Sea and southern end of the north

Atlantic and can be found as far south as the Mediterranean.

Food: While the LSD will eat bottom living fish its main diet comprises crustaceans including crabs and

shrimp, molluscs and polychaete worms. It will scavenge any fish carcases on the sea bed.

Baits: Oily fish baits such as mackerel, blueys or herring will attract the passing LSD as will peeler crab.

They can be a pest when fishing with large baits for other species. The shore angler can target them

with sandeel and a cocktail of ragworm and fish bait can be very effective.


Dogfish, Lesser Spotted

Scyliorhinus canicula

Småflekket rødhai

Småfläckig rödhaj

Småplettet rødhaj

Kleingefelckter Katzenhai

Not available


Not available Not available Not available Not available Not available Not available

Regional Names - Blindog, Doggie, Lesser Spotted Catshark

Bull huss nasal flaps

Further Reading..

Might as well face it, I’m addicted to dogs

http://www.planetseafishing.com/features/read/might-as-well-face-it-im-addicted-to-dogs/�

Shark, Blue - Prionace glauca

Photo taken aboard Luke Aston’s boat Clare Dragoon with thanks to John SAI

Distinguishing features: The blue shark is a long, slender member of the shark family with long,

curving pectoral fins. The upper lobe of the tail fin is also long. It has no spiracle and five gill slits. The

back and upper sides are dark blue, fading into a lighter blue on the lower sides and white on the

belly.

Size: This shark can grow to lengths of around 3.8 metres in Northern European waters and can weigh

up to 160 kg.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/sharkblue.htm

Habitat: The blue shark is ocean going and is found in warm and temperate waters throughout the

world. It is a seasonal migratory fish in northern waters and rarely comes close to shore. It tends to

live in the surface areas. The majority of these northern sharks are female.

Food: Feeds mainly on shoals of pelagic fish such as mackerel, herring and sandeels although they

also predate on squid.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/sharkblue.htm�

Baits: Mackerel are the most effective bait for the blue shark, either live or as a flapper. They respond

well to the scent trail from rubby dubby.


Shark, Blue Prionace glauca Blåhai Blåhaj Blåhaj Blauhai Not available



Shark, Porbeagle - Lamna nasus

Photo courtesy of Kevin Crowley SAI

Distinguishing features: The porbeagle shark is a round bodied, chunky member of the shark family. It

has five gills and comparatively large front dorsal fin. The small second dorsal fin is situated

immediately above the similar anal fin. The back and upper sides are grayish blue which fades into

cream on the underside. The dorsal fins have a lighter rear edge.

Size: The porbeagle can reach lengths of around 3 metres and a weight in excess of 230 kg.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/sharkporbeagle.htm

Habitat: The porbeagle can be found throughout the north Atlantic. It is a pelagic species and will

travel extensively hunting. Although it is an oceanic shark it can be found close to shore. The larger

fish tend to frequent the northern end of its range.

Food: Squid form a major part of this shark’s diet as do fish especially mackerel, cod and coalfish.

Baits: Whole fish baits are preferred for the porbeagle either live or dead.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/sharkporbeagle.htm�


Shark, Porbeagle

Lamna nasus Håbrann Håbrand, sillhaj

Sildehaj Heringshai Not available



Length / Weight Chart - http://www.planetseafishing.com/downloads/porbeagle.pdf

http://www.planetseafishing.com/downloads/porbeagle.pdf�

Smoothhound, Starry - Mustelus asterias

Distinguishing features: The starry smooth hound is a closely related of the smooth hound and

resembles it closely. The lower lobe on the tail is larger than its relative and the denticles are broad

with grooves along their length. The nasal flaps are narrow. The coloration is the same as the smooth

hound but it has small white spots on the upper sides which gives the fish its distinguishing name.

Size: The starry smooth hound grows to a length of around 1.8 metres and can weigh 13 kg.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/smoothhound.htm

Habitat: Found mainly in water to 70 metres deep in waters from the southern reaches of the UK down

to the Mediterranean and up into the southern North Sea up to Danish waters. It prefers a seabed of

sand and gravel.

Food: The crushing teeth are capable of smashing the shells or hermit crabs and these together with

other crustaceans form the major part of their diet.

Baits: As for smooth hounds, crabs, peeler and hardbacks, and hermit crabs are effective baits. Squid

will also take this species as will ragworm and cocktail baits.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/smoothhound.htm�


Smothhound, Starry

Mustelus asterias Hvitflekket glatthai

Glatthaj Stjernehaj Glatthai Not available


Not available Not available Not available Not available Not available Cação liso

Regional Names - Smuts

Further Reading..

Hounds all round

http://www.planetseafishing.com/features/read/hounds-all-round/�

Smooth hound - Mustelus mustelus

Photo courtesy of Henry

Distinguishing features: The smooth hound has a typical, slender shark body with two dorsal fins and

five gill slits. The lower lobe of the tail fin is comparatively small. The dermal denticles are narrow with

grooves at the thick end only. The back and sides are grey with occasional dark spots on the back and

the belly is an off white. The mouth has small, flattened crushing teeth. There is a spiracle behind each

eye. The nasal flaps are broad.

Size: The smooth hound grows to a length of around 1.5 metres and a weight of 24kg.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/smooth.htm

Habitat: Found mainly in water from 5 - 50 metres in waters from the southern reaches of the UK

down to the Mediterranean. It prefers a seabed of mixed ground with sand, gravel and boulders.

Food: Feeds almost exclusively on crustaceans including crabs, hermit crabs, shrimps and squat

lobster.

http://www.beachandboat.co.uk/�

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/smooth.htm�

Bait: Crabs, peeler and hardbacks are excellent baits for smooth hounds as are hermit crabs when

removed from their shells. Squid will also take this species as will ragworm and cocktail baits.

Regional Names - Smuts

Further Reading..

Hounds all round

http://www.planetseafishing.com/features/read/hounds-all-round/�

Spurdog - Squalus acanthias

Distinguishing features: The spurdog is the only common small shark found in the North Sea and

eastern North Atlantic which has a spine in front of the two dorsal fins and lacks an anal fin. The

spines are sharp and the one on the second dorsal stands proud of the fin. The back of the spurdog is

dark grey with white spots scattered on the back and sides. The female gives birth to live young.

Size: Spurs can attain a length of about 130 cm and a weight of around 11 kg. The female spurdogs

are heavier than the male size for size.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/spurdog.htm

Distribution: The spurdog is found in waters from 10 metres to in excess of 200 metres in depth with

over a soft or muddy bottom. Although they are generally a bottom feeding fish they will feed up in

mid water or higher when chasing food. It’s not unusual for a pack of spurs to follow a hooked fish to

the surface.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/spurdog.htm�

Food: Shoaling fish such as whiting, herring, sprats and sandeels for the bulk of the spurdog diet. It

will also feed on demersal species such as cod and flatfish together with squid and crabs.

Baits: Fish baits are without doubt the most effective bait for spurdogs and any of the oily species such

as herring, mackerel or blueys should be the first choice. At some venues they can also be targeted

using squid either whole or in strip form. Spurdog will happily attack whole fish being used to target

larger species.


Spurdog Squalus acanthias Pigghå Pigghaj Pighaj Dornhai Aguillat/Chien


Doornhaai Mielga Spinarola Katran Háfur Galhudo malhado, Melga

Regional Names - Spiney Dogs, Spurries

Length / Weight Chart - http://www.planetseafishing.com/downloads/spurdog.pdf

Further Reading..

Spurdogs in crisis

http://www.planetseafishing.com/downloads/spurdog.pdf�

http://www.planetseafishing.com/features/read/spurdogs-in-crisis/�

Tope - Galeorhinus galeus

Distinguishing features: The tope is a member of the shark family and has the typical slender shark

shape with five gill slits. The upper lobe of the tail fin is large and ends in a triangular shape. The

second dorsal fin is similar in shape and size to the directly opposite anal fin. The back and sides vary

in colour from grey to grayish brown and the belly is white.

Size: The tope can attain lengths of 2.5 metres and weights of 38 kg in European waters.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/tope.htm

Habitat: The tope can be found along the coast adjoining the east North Atlantic, North Sea and the

Mediterranean and is migratory in the north. It inhabits water from 10 to 200 metres in depth and

although it mainly lives in packs on the bottom but will come up into mid-water to feed. It can be

found over all types of seabed but is commonly found over mixed hard and soft ground.

Food: The tope feeds extensively on fish including pout, codling and whiting. Crustaceans also form

part of its diet.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/tope.htm�

Bait: Mackerel, live or dead is the favourite bait for tope although in some estuarine waters sections of

silver eel can be effective as can large sandeel where the tope come within range of the shore angler.

Other small fish such as dabs and whiting can also be effective over sandy ground.


Tope Galeorhinus galeus Gråhai Gråhaj Gråhaj Hundshai Not available



Regional Names - Sweet William

Common Skate - Raja batis

Distinguishing features: This is the largest of the skates found in European waters. It has a fairly long

snout which leads to the front edge of the wing or disc being concave in shape. Both sexes have

prickles on the back but the male tends to have more coverage over the whole of the disc. This skate

has a row of spines down its tail and has up to three spines situated between the two dorsal fins at the

rear of the tail. The colouration on the upper surface varies from olive brown to grey with brown

blotches and dark spots. Lines of dark pores are visible on the blueish-grey underside.

Size: Females of this skate can reach widths in excess of two metres and weights over 115 kg have

been recorded.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/skatecommon.htm

Distribution: The common skate can be found in depths of 10 to 600 metres but the adults tend to

inhabit the deeper water. In exceptional cases around the Western Isles large adults will venture into

shallow water. It can be found from the waters around Iceland and north Norway down to the

Mediterranean Sea. It is commonly found over soft seabed in particular where scallops are found.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/skatecommon.htm�

Food: This skate is a predacious fish which will hunt in mid-water as well as on the bottom and feeds

extensively on spurdogs, rays and demersal fish. It will also feed on crustaceans.

Baits: Whole or flappered fish are the most effective bait for skate including mackerel, coalfish and

dogfish.


Common Skate Raja batis Glattskate Skata Skade Glattrochen Flotte


Schate Noriega Razza Comune Gladkiy Skat Skata Raia

Regional Names - Barndoor

Further reading

Skate on a plate

Island Master-skater

http://www.planetseafishing.com/features/read/skate-on-a-plate/�

http://www.planetseafishing.com/features/read/island-master-skater/�

Ray, Blonde - Raja brachvara

photo courtesy of Mike Concannon

Distinguishing features: The blonde ray has the common Rajidae kite shape with a relatively thick body

and a short snout. The tips of the pectoral fins are angular and there are a line of spins down the mid-

line of the tail. The light brown back is covered with dark spots which continue out to the very edge of

the wings. There may also be lighter blotches on the upper surface and the fish is white on the ventral

side. As with all rays the males have large claspers adjacent to the pectoral fins.

http://www.fishingdartmouth.co.uk/�

Size: One of the largest rays the blonde ray can reach a weight of 18 kg.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/rayblonde.htm

Habitat: It inhabits from UK coastal waters down to the Mediterranean and is mainly found in water

from 30 to 100 metres deep over sandy bottoms.

Food: This ray feeds mainly on herring, sprats, pouting, sandeels and other small fish together with

crustaceans and worms.

Baits: Large fillets of mackerel are an effective bait for blonde rays particularly when combined with a

whole calamari squid. Peeler crab can work well from the shore.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/rayblonde.htm�

Ray, Cuckoo - Raja naevus

Distinguishing features: The cuckoo ray is one of the rarer of the European rays and has the typical ray

shape with comparatively large rounded pectoral fins. There is a double line of spines down the tail

and rear of the back. Small spines cover most of the upper surface and underside of the snout. The

back is a patchy grayish brown with distinct black and yellow marks on each wing.

Size: This ray can grow to a length of around 70 cm.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/raycukoo.htm

Habitat: Lives over clean seabed in depths from 20 to 150 metres. It is found from the north of the UK

and southern Norway down the Atlantic coast and North Sea into the west end of the Mediterranean.

Food: The diet consists of shrimps and worms when young with fish forming the main food for adults.

Baits: Mackerel strip is generally the most effective bait for this species.

Regional Names - Jenny

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/raycukoo.htm�

Ray, Small-eyed - Raja microocellata

photo courtesy of Mike Concannon

Distinguishing features: The small eyed ray has rounded wing tips and a shortish snout. As its name

suggests it has comparatively small eyes. The upper surface of the wings and body are grayish to

brown colour with light patches and streaks which run parallel to the edges of the wings.

Size: The small eye grows to lengths of around 90 cm and attains a weight of over 7 kg. As with most

rays the female of the species is larger.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/raysmalleyed.htm


http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/raysmalleyed.htm�

Habitat: This ray lives in the coastal waters around the English Channel, south of Ireland and the

Atlantic coasts of France, Spain and Portugal in depths of up to 100 metres. It likes sandy seabeds and

will frequent estuaries.

Food: The small eyed ray feeds mainly on fish and crustaceans.

Baits: Sandeel make an effective bait for small eyed ray, particularly from the shore. Squid, either on its

own or as a cocktail with fish strip will also take fish as will small fish from the location being fished

such as poor cod or pout.

Ray, Spotted - Raia montagui

Photo courtesy of Adam

Distinguishing features: The spotted ray has a concave, curved snout and the typical ray wings. The

young spotted ray has small spines on the upper surface near the front edge and in the adults these

extend further back. There is a row of larger spines which run down the back and tail and expand to

the sides of the tail. The back is a sandy brown with dark spots which don’t extend out to the edge of

the wings. They are white on the underside.

Size: The spotted ray can reach a length of 75 cm and a weight of around 4 kg. The females grow

larger than the males.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/rayspotted.htm

Habitat: Whilst it will be found on rocky ground the spotted ray prefers a sandy seabed. It’s normally

found in depths between 25 and 120 metres. It is found from the coastal waters of the UK down to the

Mediterranean.


http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/rayspotted.htm�

Food: The spotted ray feeds mainly on crabs, shrimps and other crustaceans although fish do form a

minor part of its diet.

Baits: Mackerel, squid, peeler crab and sand eel can all be effective baits from the boat or shore.


Spotted Ray Raja montagui Flekkskate Not available Storplettet rokke

Fläckrochen Not available



Thornback Ray - Raja clavata

Distinguishing features: The body of the thornback ray has the kite shape that is typical of the skates

and rays. As its name suggests it has thorns on its upper surface particularly from the root of the tail

down to the dorsal fins at its tip. In the larger specimens the thorns have a small disc at their base.

Colouration varies widely but it’s generally a brown to grey on the back with numerous lighter spots

and patches. The underside is cream merging to grey at the edges of the wings.

Size: Thornbacks can grow to a weight of around 15 kg and fish approaching this size will always be

female.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/raythornback.htm

Distribution: The thornback ray can be commonly found in depths of 10 to 60 metres but the depth

ranges to 300 metres. It tends to prefer areas where the sea bed comprises sand, mud or gravel. The

female lays her eggs in inshore waters from March to August.

Food: Thornbacks feed mainly on crabs but it will also eat fish such as sandeels and flatfish.

Baits: Fish baits such as mackerel and herring are popular baits particularly around Scotland and

Ireland. Prawns and peeler crab can also be very effective and in some areas squid will produce this

ray.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/raythornback.htm�


Thornback Ray Raja clavata Piggskate Knaggrocka Sømrokke Dornrochen Not available



Regional Names - Roker

Further Reading..

Rays un-loched

Rays on the radar

http://www.planetseafishing.com/features/read/rays-un-loched/�

http://www.planetseafishing.com/features/read/rays-on-the-radar/�

Ray, Undulate - Raja undulata

Photo courtesy of Milo

Distinguishing features: The undulate ray has the typical kite shape with rounded tips to the wings and

a shortish snout. The back and snout are covered with short spines. The upper surface is a brown to

sandy brown colour with multiple distinguishing darker wavy lines and yellowish white blotches.

Size: The undulate can reach a length of 1.3 metres and weigh over 9 kg.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/rayundulate.htm

Habitat: It is most commonly found in water 45 to 100 metres deep. Although mostly found over

sandy bottoms it will inhabit areas where the seabed comprises mud, mussels bed or boulders. It is

found off the south coast of England and Ireland down the Atlantic coasts of France, Spain and

Portugal into the Mediterranean. The larger fish are found at the southern end of this area.

Food: This ray feeds mainly on small fish particularly flatfish as well as squid and crustaceans.


http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/rayundulate.htm�

Baits: Oily fish baits such as herring, mackerel, sandeels and blueys are effective for undulate rays and

squid will also produce fish either on its own or as a cocktail with fish strip.

Photo courtesy of Milo


Stingray - Dasyatis pastinaca

Photo courtesy of Steve

Distinguishing features: The stingray has the typical rhomboid body shape of a ray but lacks any

dorsal fins. Instead it has one or more serrated spines at the base of the thick section of the tail which

them tapers quickly into a long, whip like shape. The colour on the upper side is usually a plain brown,

grey or olive but some lighter blotches may be present. The underside is cream fading to grey at the

outer edges of the wings.

Size: The sting ray can reach weights in excess of 120 kg.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/raysting.htm

Distribution: This ray is found in depths ranging from the shoreline to approximately 75 metres where

the seabed comprises mud or sand. It does venture into estuarine waters on occasion. It can be found

from the waters of the North Sea, through the Mediterranean Sea to the southern tip of Africa. The

largest specimens are found toward the south of this range.


http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/raysting.htm�

Food: Feeds almost exclusively on crustaceans and molluscs.

Baits: Stingray will take fish baits but crab and king ragworm can be more effective when targeting this

species.


Stingray Dasyatis pastinaca

Pilrokke Stingrocka Pilrokke Peitschenrochen Raie Pastenague


Pijlstaartrog Rayavaca Baracola Morskoj Kot Not available Manteiga

Further reading

Sun, sea and stingrays

http://www.planetseafishing.com/features/read/sun-sea-and-stingrays/�

Angler Fish - Loahius Piscatorius

Distinguishing features: The anglerfish is basically a broad flat head with a mouth and a tail. The rays

of the first dorsal fin are spines and the second one has 11-12 rays. Towards the mouth there is small

rod used to lure prey. The colour of the upper body varies from reddish brown to grey/green. The

underside is white and the pelvic fins have a black border.

Size: The anglerfish can reach weight approaching 45 kg.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/angler-fish.htm

Habitat: Tends to prefer deep water up to 550 metres where the seabed is composed of sand, gravel

or crushed shells. It can be found from the Arctic Circle down to North West Africa.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/angler-fish.htm�

Food: Anglerfish feed almost exclusively on live fish.

Baits: They are an accidental angling catch and fish baits are the mostly likely to attract this species.


Angler Lophius piscatorius Breiflabb Marulk Havtaske Seeteufel Baudroie


Zeeduivel Rape Rana / Rospo / Martino

Not available Skötuselur Tamboril

Regional Names - Monk, Monkfish, Oomph, Fishing Frog

Bass – Dicentrachus labrax

Distinguishing features: The colours of a bass vary from greeny-grey on the back merging into

brilliant silver on the sides and a silvery-white belly. It has prominent scales on its streamlined body.

The bass has two large dorsal fins the first of which has 8-9 spines. It also has sharp spines on the

lower edge of the gill cover and should be handled with care.

Size: Whilst the bass can reach a size of over one metre and a maximum weight around 12 kilo the

angler can more reasonably expect to find fish up to 60 cm.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/bass.htm

Distribution: The Bass is relatively common in the waters around the UK and in habits the waters from

Norway in the north down as far as the Mediterranean and West Africa. It is an active shoaling fish in

inshore waters and will regularly be found in estuaries, particularly when in its juvenile stages. The

bass tends to breed in May off the UK. It is to some extent a migratory fish although many areas hold

year round populations of fish up to 1.5kg.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/bass.htm�

Food: Fish is the main diet of bass in particular sandeels, sprats and other small members of the

herring family. They also eat large quantities of squid and crustaceans.

Baits: The most popular all round shore bait for bass off beaches is the fresh lugworm with peeler crab

producing most fish over rocky marks. Live fish baits such as sandeel and mackerel can produce some

excellent specimens both from the boat and shore. Float fishing with live baits is becoming

increasing popular with anglers targeting reef bass from the boat. After an onshore blow razorfish

and slipper limpets can be very effective from the beaches.

Lures: A large variety of lures will take bass both from the boat and shore. From the shore spinning

with silver lures such as the ABU Krill or the Dexter wedge in its various guises will produce fish. Plugs

are very effective over shallow rocky marks due to the fact that they are less likely to snag and their

size tends to produce bigger specimens.

Redgills, Storm Sandeels and other eel shaped lures will also produce fish and the risk of snagging

when fishing over shallow rocks can be reduced by fishing them below a bubble float or Sbirolino

floats which can be obtained either for surface fishing or slow sinking.

Shads are very effective both from the shore when spinning and fished on flowing traces from the

boat. In certain areas pirks such as the Yann can take some large specimens of bass.


Bass Dicentrarchus labrax Havabbor Havsabborre Havaborre Seebarsch Bar


Zeebaars Lubina Spigola Morskój volk Vartari Robalo

Regional Names - Spikey Salmon Bass, White Salmon , White Mullet or Sea Dace

Length / Weight Chart - http://www.planetseafishing.com/downloads/bass.pdf

http://www.planetseafishing.com/downloads/bass.pdf�

Black Bream - Spondyliosom cantharus

Distinguishing features: The black bream is a deep bodied, fully scaled species with a relatively small

head and spiny single dorsal fin. The back of bream is darkish blue-grey merging into silvery-grey on

the sides. There are six to seven faint vertical bars on the sides when the fish is fresh. Young fish may

have golden horizontal bars on the sides. Occasionally the larger fish will have a blue tinge around

the eyes.

Size: Black bream will grow to a length of 50 cm and may attain a weight of 3 kg.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/breamblack.htm

Distribution: This bream can be commonly found from the southern end of the UK down to the

Mediterranean and will range further north to the Scottish border in the summer months. It likes

mixed rough and clean ground, will frequent mussel beds and may be found on wrecks. It will

generally be found in depths shallower than 50 metres.

Food: Feeds mainly on squid and small crustaceans but small fish and seaweed also feature in their

diet.

Baits: Squid is an effective bait for Black Bream either as whole small "party" squid, squid heads or

simply in strip form. Ragworm, scallop frills and small fish strips will also attract this species of bream

and bread is successfully used from the shore in the Channel Islands. Ground baiting can be used to

attract the shoals.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/breamblack.htm�


Bream, Black Spondyliosoma cantharus

Havkaruss Havsruda Havrude Seekarpfe Not available



Regional Names - Old Wife

Further Reading..

The forgotten venue

Rattle Therapy

http://www.planetseafishing.com/features/read/the-forgotten-venue/�

http://www.planetseafishing.com/features/read/rattle-therapy/�

Couch’s Bream - Sparus pagrus

Distinguishing features: The Couch’s bream is a deep bodied fish with a high, rounded profile to its

head and a spiny single dorsal fin. The anal fin has 3 spiny rays connected to 8 or 9 softer rays to the

posterior. This bream has an overall rose-pink hue which darkens towards the back and merges into

silver on the lower sides and belly. The fins are also rose-pink. The mouth contains 4 to 6 very strong

teeth at the front and smaller sharp teeth behind and to the sides of these. There are also a rows of

crushing teeth to the rear of the jaws.

Size: Couch’s bream will grow to a length of 75 cm and can reach weights in excess of 7kg.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/breamcouches.htm

Distribution: This bream can be from the southern end of the UK, particularly the Channel Islands,

down to the Mediterranean and north-west African coast. It likes muddy or sandy ground around rocks

particularly where sea grass is found. It will generally be targeted in depths shallower than 50 metres.

Food: Feeds mainly on molluscs and small crustaceans.

Baits: Squid is an effective bait for Couch’s Bream particularly from the boat but fish strip, cuttlefish

and worms will also take this bream.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/breamcouches.htm�


Bream, Couch’s

Sparus pagrus Not available Rodbraxen Almindelig Blankesten

Gewöhnliche Rotbrasse

Pagre Commun


Not available Pargo-Colorado Albaro Pagro narp обыкновенный Not available Pargo-Amarelo

Regional Names - Pagrus

Further reading - Hard and Mean

http://www.planetseafishing.com/features/read/hard-and-mean-thats-a-couches-bream/�

Bream, Gilthead - Sparus aurata

Distinguishing features: The gilthead bream has the typical deep, flat profile bream shape. It has a

distinct bump on the head above the gills. The front teeth are sharp and pointed whereas the others

are flat for crushing. When alive or fresh it has red or orange markings at the gill covers and a bright

irregular gold stripe across the head and onto the gill covers which gives the fish its name. The back is

a bluey grey merging into silver on the lower sides and belly.

Size: The gilthead can reach weights of 7.5 kg.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/breamgilthead.htm

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/breamgilthead.htm�

Habitat: Lives in shallow water, up to 30 metres, in small groups over soft ground. It prefers the

warmer waters around the Mediterranean and the west coast of Africa. In summer it migrates north

and can be found on the south coast of Ireland and the western reaches of the English Channel.

Food: It feeds mainly on molluscs and crustaceans.

Bait: Peeler crab and shellfish are the main baits for giltheads but they will take worms as well.


Bream, Gilt-Head

Sparus aurata Not available Not available Not available Not available Dorade


Goudbrasem Dorada Orata Not available Not available Not available

Bream, Red - Pagellus bogaraveo

Distinguishing features: While the red bream has the basic bream family shape it is not as deep bodied

as some and has a rounded head. It has large eyes and long pectoral fins. The back is a reddish grey

colour as are the fins and the sides are silver with as pinkish hue. There is a darkish spot above the

pectoral fin on the dark lateral line. The fins are reddish grey in colour, the pectoral and tail fins are

particularly red.

Size: The red bream can grow to over 50 cm and weigh up to 4.5 kg.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/breamred.htm

Habitat: This bream is a shoal fish which migrates north during the summer from the warmer waters

around the Mediterranean and the Atlantic coasts of France and Spain. Young fish will come into

shallow water and adults live in water over 100 metres deep most of the time. It prefers mixed hard

ground and like the black bream, can be found around wrecks.

Food: The red bream feeds mainly on small fish but they will also eat squid and crustaceans.

Baits: Shellfish such as razors, cockles and mussels make good baits for this species and they will also

take fish strips.


Bream, Red Pagellus bogaraveo Flekkpagell Fläckpagell Spidstandet blankesten

Meerbrasse Dorade


Zeebrasem Espàrido Pagro / Pagello occhialone

Not available Not available Not available

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/breamred.htm�

Ray’s Bream - Brama brama

Distinguishing features: Has the typical narrow, deep bodied bream shape with a snub nose and

downward angled mouth. The dorsal and anal fins cover the rear half of the body and are low for

most of the length only rising outwards as they reach their leading edges. It has long tail and pectoral

fins and there are upwards of sixty scales along the lateral line. The back is a browny green with silver

sides and belly. The pectoral fins have a yellowish tinge.

Size: The Ray’s bream can weigh over 3 kg and reach lengths of over 65 cm.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/breamrays.htm

Distribution: Ray’s bream is a pelagic species which inhabits the western Atlantic waters, the North Sea

and down to the central mid-Atlantic. Although normally found in deep water areas it is occasionally

found stranded on North Sea shorelines in the cold winters during its southern migration.

Food: This species feeds mainly on small fish and crustaceans.

Baits: Although rarely caught by anglers Worm and fish baits will occasionally take this species.

Thanks to Derryck Greenwood for permission to use the excellent photo.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/breamrays.htm�

Wolf fish (Catfish) - Anarhichas lupus

Distinguishing features: The catfish or wolf fish is a long bodied species with no pelvic fins. The dorsal

and anal fins are long with the dorsal starting above the gill plate. At the tail end the dorsal fin is

convex at the junction with the body. The large head contains a mouth with canine like teeth and

crushing teeth inside. The body colour varies from reddish brown to bluey grey with darker vertical

bands which also feature on the dorsal.

Size: The catfish can reach a length of 1.5 metres and weights of 18 kg.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/catfishcommon.htm

Habitat: Found in numbers around Norway, the Faroe Islands and Iceland in depths from 10 metres to

300 metres. Further south it is rarely found in depths of less than 60 metres. It prefers hard seabed

but will be found on mud or sand.

Food: Catfish feed on crustaceans and molluscs as well as sea urchins.

Baits: Squid makes an effective bait for wolf fish as are mussels and fish such as blueys.

Lures: Catfish will take pirks either with or without bait.


http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/catfishcommon.htm�

Catfish Anarhichas lupus Gråsteinbit Havskatt Almindelig/ Stribet havkat

Katfish, seewolf Loup


Meerval Perro del norte / lobo

Bavosa lupa Zubátka Steinbítur Peixe-lobo

Regional Names - Wolffish

Further Reading..

In Search of the Abominable Sea Wolf

http://www.planetseafishing.com/features/read/in-search-of-the-abominable-sea-wolf/�

Coalfish - Pollachius virens

Distinguishing features: The Coalfish is similar to the pollack in body shape although the larger

specimens tend to have a rounder cross section. The first anal fin starts below the gap between the

first and second dorsal fin. The back is a very dark greeny blue which merges sharply into silvery white

on the sides and belly. The lateral line is light coloured. Small specimens over kelp may have a golden

sheen to the sides.

Size: Coalfish can grow to a length in excess of 130 cm and weigh over 15 kg particularly in northern

waters.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/coalfish.htm

Distribution: Immature Coalies can be found in great numbers in the shallow water around the north of

the UK and Ireland. They will inhabit water up to 250 metres deep and over all sorts of sea bed. The

Coalfish will work through the sea layers from the bottom to the surface in search of food.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/coalfish.htm�

Food: Large Coalfish feed almost exclusively on fish particularly on members of the herring family.

Smaller fish feed on sandeels, capelin and crustaceans.

Baits: The smaller Coalfish will take most baits but favourites with the shore angler include peeler

crab, mussels and worms.

Lures: The boat angler will target the Coalfish almost exclusively with lures. Strings of feather or small

eels can be very effective for the smaller fish. Larger specimens are best fished for using a plastic eel

such as a Redgill, plastic worm or large shad retrieved on a long trace. Feathers and spinners will also

take fish from the shore. Casting small pirks can also be effective in deeper water.


Coalfish Pollachius virens Sei Gråsej Sej, gråsej Köhler Lieu Noir


Koolvis Palero Merluzzo Nero Sájda Ufsi Escamudo

Regional Names - Saith, Poddlie, Queeth, Geek, Poddler, Black Pollock, Black Jack, Sillock, Sey,

Glashan, Cuddie

Pollack (left) and Coalfish (right) - photo courtesy of Mike Concannon


Cod – Gadus morhua

Distinguishing features: Probably the most recognisable of the cold water sea fish that the angler

fishing in northern European waters is liable to come across, mostly due to its popularity with rod and

line anglers. The cod varies in background colour from greenish on fish which inhabit the deeper

waters to reddish brown on fish which have taken up residence in kelp. The back and sides have dark

and light mottling in all cases. The lateral line is conspicuously light, continuous and has a smooth

curve over the pectoral fin.

The cod is generally a thick bodied fish with a long chin barbell. It has three dorsal fins close together

which are rounded in profile and two anal fins. The tail fin is slightly convex and the upper jaw

overhangs the lower.

Size: There are records of fish of 90kg (200lb) but the maximum today will be unlikely to reach much

more than a quarter of that size in Scandinavian or Icelandic waters. The UK shore angler can expect

fish averaging around 1.5kg and the capture of a 5 kilo fish is exceptional. Even from the boat fish of

over 10kg are no longer common unless the angler is fishing the waters near the Arctic Circle.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/cod.htm

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/cod.htm�

Distribution: The cod can be found in a variety of habitats from the shoreline to well down the

continental shelf, in depths of 600m. At the southern end of its range the cod tends to only inhabit the

shallower water in winter, where, as elsewhere it’s the smaller, younger fish which live close inshore.

It will forage for food both on the sea-bed and in mid-water. The cod generally spawns between

February and April in water about 200m deep. Inshore waters of this depth are only found in the

northern fjords. The cod has been exploited for years as a food fish and nowadays stocks are

dangerously close to extinction in some areas.

Food: There is not much that a cod won’t eat but a wide range of crustaceans, worms, brittlestars and

fish are among its main food sources. The fish species it targets include herring, capelin, and sandeels

and increasingly in UK waters the pipefish.

Baits: Although it depends on the venue and the time of year peeler crab is probably the top bait in the

UK particularly for the shore angler. Closely following crab would be the various worms with lug, both

fresh and frozen black lug being the most effective and rag also producing fish. The matchman’s

favourite white rag will often take fish on days when more accessible baits fail.

The various shellfish, mussels, razorfish and clams will all take fish on their day and are particularly

popular with boat anglers around Scotland and the North Sea. Large squid baits will take the bigger

cod and this bait is extensively used from the boat in the waters around the south coast of England.

In the more northern cod holding areas fish baits are extensively used both from the boat and shore

with mackerel, herring and blueys all taking their share of fish. Combining two or more baits into a

cocktail on the hook can often be very effective with lugworm and mussel being a favourite in the

north.

Lures: Where the water clarity is good lures can be very effective for cod in particular from the boat.

Pirks are probably the first lure that the angler thinks of when targeting cod and with the growing

popularity of pirk casting much light lures can be used. The chrome pirk is still popular although

various painted lures are now available and will take their fair share of fish.

Plastic or rubber worms, eels such as the redgill, or shads can be very effective fished either on a flier

above a pirk or on a flowing trace either slowly retrieved or hopped along the bottom. Large shads

fished in conjunction with a leadhead are a highly successful method of fishing for large cod in the

clear northern waters.

Muppets are also used extensively for cod but these are generally fished with bait and are more an

attractor than a lure.


Cod Gadus morhua Torsk Torsk Torsk Dorsch Cabillaud


Kabeljauw Bacalao Merluzzo Bianco Treska Þorskur Bacalhau

Regional Names - Spraggs, Ken Dodd

Length / Weight Chart - http://www.planetseafishing.com/downloads/cod.pdf

Further Reading..

Jurassic Mark

Shad Mad Cod

http://www.planetseafishing.com/downloads/cod.pdf�

http://www.planetseafishing.com/features/read/jurassic-mark/�

http://www.planetseafishing.com/features/read/shad-mad-cod/�

Conger - Conger conger

Distinguishing features: The Conger has a round, elongated body and a continuous dorsal fin which

merges with the ventral fin. Unlike the Common Eel the dorsal fin starts near to the pectoral fin.

Colouration on the back and sides varies from a dull brown to dark grey depending upon the location.

Size: The Conger can be a massive fish with a maximum weight in excess of 65 kg and lengths

approaching three metres. The shore angler choosing a suitable mark could locate fish of up to 25 kg.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/conger.htm

Distribution: Conger will be found mainly over rocks, wrecks and other structures including around

piers. They inhabit depths from the shoreline to 200 metres and it’s not unusual to see them

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/conger.htm�

swimming around weed and kelp beds close to the surface in harbours and sea lochs. It breeds in the

deep water trenches in the tropical Atlantic.

Food: The diet of the Conger consists mainly of fish, large crabs and octopuses.

Baits: Mackerel flappers are the most consisted Conger bait but pouting can also be an effective fish

bait. The Conger will also take squid and cuttlefish baits and smaller ones from the shore are partial to

peeler crab.


Conger Conger conger Havål Havsål Havål Meeraal, Conger Congre


Zeepaling Côngrios Grongo Morskój úgor’ Not available Congro, safio

Regional Names - Havel, Slippery Bob

Common Eel - Anguilla anguilla

Photo courtesy of Davey

Distinguishing features: The Common Eel has a round, elongated body and a continuous dorsal fin

which joins with the ventral fin at the tail. The dorsal fin starts well down its back, near to the vent

than the gills and the pectoral fin is rounded. The lower jaw protrudes further than the upper one.

Colouration on the back and sides varies from a dull brown and yellow in freshwater to dark grey

almost black with a silver belly when it is mature in the marine environment.

Size: In the sea the Common Eel will grow to around 2 kg. Small eels can be commonly found under

rocks in estuaries.


http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/eelcommon.htm

Distribution: The Eel is rarely caught in water deeper than 20 metres and it’s found mostly in estuaries

and harbour areas where the bottom is a mixture of mud, weed and rocks.

Food: The diet of the Common Eel consists mainly of crustaceans and worms.

Baits: Peeler crab is the most effective bait for Eels although they will take worms and occasionally

fishbaits.


Eel Anguilla anguilla Ål Ål (Eur.) ål Aal Anguilla


Not available Anguila Not available Ugor Not available Eirós

Regional Names - Snotties

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/eelcommon.htm�

Garfish - Belone belone

Distinguishing features: The garfish has a distinctive elongated body with a long beak like set of hard

jaws. It has a long single dorsal and anal fin. The colouration is a bright blueish green on the back and

upper sides fading into bright silver on the lower sides and belly. A yellow sheen is sometimes present

on the lower half.

Size: The garfish can reach a length of a round one metre and a weight of 1.75 kg.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/garfish.htm

Distribution: Garfish are found mainly in the surface layers of the sea. It migrates from deep water

inshore during the summer months. It is mostly found in southern section of the east North Atlantic,

the southern North Sea, the Mediterranean and round into the Baltic Sea.

Food: They feed mainly on small fish especially herring and sandeels but will also eat squid and

crustaceans.

Baits: Small strips of fish are the most effective bait for garfish including mackerel belly strip and

pieces of garfish itself.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/garfish.htm�

Lures: Garfish will take slender silver spoons and spinners together with feathers. They can also be

taken on small plastic eels and Storm sandeel style lures.


Garfish Belone belone Horngjel Näbbgädda, horngädda

Hornfisk Hornhechte Orphie


Geep Aguja Aguglia Not available Not available Sarda

Regional Names - Green Bones, Sea Pike, Longnose, Snipe Eel, Mackeral Guide, Sea Needle

Gurnard, Grey - Eutrigla gurnardus

Distinguishing features: The grey gurnard has a slim, tapered body with the typical gurnard hard head

and feeler like pectoral fin rays. The lateral line has a series of bony knobs along its length. The

pectoral fin is comparatively short and doesn’t reach the vent. There is a darkish blotch on the first

dorsal. While it is generally a grey or brownish grey colour it’s not unusual for the back and sides to

have pinkish hue. The ventral side is a dullish white.

Size: The grey gurnard can grow to a length of 45 cm and a weight of around 1.2 kg.

Habitat: Found on similar ground to the red gurnard but prefers depths of 20 to 50 metres. It also

ranges further north than the red gurnard. Although a bottom feeder it will range through the lower

water column and occasionally into mid-water.

Food: Feeds mainly on small shrimps, crustacean bottom living fishes and sandeels.

Baits: Small fish baits are the most effective for targeting this species.

Lures: The grey gurnard will take small plastic eels and sabiki style lures.


Gurnard, Grey Chelidonichthys [Eutrigla] gurnardus

Knurr, vanlig Knot Knurhane Knurrhahn Not available


Gr Poon Not available Not available Not available Not available Not available

Regional Names - Gowdies, Latchets

Gurnard, Red - Aspitriela caculus

Photo courtesy of Dale

Distinguishing features: The red gurnard, like others in this family has a sloping, hard bony head with

spines on it and the gill plates. It has a stocky, tapered body with large scales along the lateral line.

The pectoral fins are adapted to provide additional sense organs and the first three rays are thick and

separate. The head is slightly concave and the pectoral fins only just reach the vent. The back and

sides are deep red merging into pinkish silver on the underside.

Size: Can attain a length of 40 cm and a weight of around 1.3 kilo.

Habitat: Found in the southern east Atlantic and English Channel as well as the Mediterranean in

depths of between 20 and 250 metres. The red gurnard prefers seabeds of sand or sand and gravel

although it will spend time on mud and rocky ground.

Food: This gurnard feeds on shrimps and small crabs together with small fish and worms.

Baits: Fish strips are the most common bait for the red gurnard but they will take peeler crab and

ragworm on occasion.



Gurnard, Red

Chelidonichthys [Aspitrigla] cuculus

Knurr,tverrstripet Rödknot Tværstibet knurhane

Kuckucksknurrhahn Not available


Rode Poon Not available Not available Not available Not available Not available

Gurnard, Tub - Eutrigla gurnardus

Distinguishing features: The tub gurnard is the largest of the European gurnards. It has the classic

sloping, bony head with sharp edges to the gill covers and feeler like pectoral extensions. The rayed

part of the pectoral fins extend well beyond the vent The colouration varies from re to pink on the

upper surfaces to predominately white or whiteish-orange on the underside. The large pectoral fins

have bright blue markings with a red trim and may have green spots.

Size: This gurnard can reach lengths of 75 cm and can weigh over 5 kg.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/gurnardtub.htm

Distribution: This bottom dwelling species can be found around the coast of northern Europe down to

the Mediterranean and north west Africa. It is most numerous towards the south of it range. The

adults can be found in depths from 20 to 200 metres and juveniles will venture close inshore.

Food: The tub gurnard feeds on a wide range of crustaceans and small fish including sandeels, gobies

and dragonettes.

Baits: A strip of fish is the most effective bait for tub gurnards particularly mackerel.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/gurnardtub.htm�


Tub Gurnard Trigla lucerna Knurr Fenknot Knurhane Knurrhahn Grondin


Poon Alfondiga Angiliedda Szeltyi Morskoi Petukh Not available Cabra-Cabaço

Regional Names - Tub, Sea robin

Haddock - Melanogrammus aeglefinus

Distinguishing features: The haddock is a member of the cod family with three dorsal fins, the first of

which is triangular and two anal fins. The lower jaw is shorter than the upper and the barbel is short.

The back is a greeny brown colour with greyish silver sides and at times has a purple hue. The lateral

line is black and there is a black spot above the pectoral fin.

Size: The haddock can grow to around 80 cm and attain a weight of 8 kg.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/haddock.htm

Habitat: A migratory fish, at the northern end of its range it travels into shallow water in the summer

and the reverse is true further south. It will be found over most types of sea bed but favours softer

bottom. It can be found in depths from 10 metres out to 300 metres.

Food: The haddock feeds mainly on bottom living organisms such as worms, brittlestars and

molluscs. They will also eat sandeels and capelin.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/haddock.htm�

Baits: Mussels are a favourite bait and they will also regularly take lugworm, fish strips and other

shellfish.

Lures: Haddock will take pirks, feathers and plastic worms or eels.


Haddock Melanogrammus aeglefinus

Hyse (kolje) Kolja Kuller Schellfish Eglefin


Schelvis Eglefino Asinello Píksha Ýsa Arinca

Regional Names - Haddies, Chipper ,Chat, Jumbo

Hake - Merluccius merluccius

Distinguishing features: The hake has a long body shape, not unlike the pollack, with a large head and

a mouth filled with long sharp teeth. The second dorsal fin and the anal fin are long and take up

approximately half of the body length. The scales on the hake are fairly large and the lateral line is

straight and located on the upper half of the body. The back is a blueish grey in colour fading to silver

on the sides and silver-white on the belly. The insides of the gills and mouth are a blackish colour.

Size: The hake can attain a length of 1.8 metres and can reach weights in excess of 12 kg.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/hake.htm

Distribution: While the hake spends a lot of its life near the bottom it will venture into the upper mid-

water reaches to feed particularly at night. It is commonly found in depths of 100 to 550 metres over

various types of seabed.

Food: The hake feeds mainly on fish and squid but the younger fish will include crustaceans in their

diet.

Baits: Oily fish baits such as mackerel and herring are effective when targeting hake and squid will also

take this species.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/hake.htm�


Hake Merluccius merluccius

Not available Kapkummel Sydafrikansk Kulmule

Kaphecht Merluche


Stokvis Merluza Del Cabo

Nasello Del Capo мерлуза капская Not available Marmota

Herring - Clupeid harangues

Distinguishing features: The herring is a narrow bodied fish with large, easily detached scales on the

body. It has a prominent lower jaw and the dorsal fin starts in front of the pelvic fins. The dark blue

back becomes lighter on the sides and merges into a silvery white on the underside.

Size: The herring can grow to a length of over 40 cm and a weight of around 700 gm.

Habitat: The herring is found throughout the north Atlantic, the North and Baltic Seas and up into the

Arctic Circle. It can be found in all depths of water and will range through the water column.

Food: The main diet of the herring is plankton.

Baits: It is very rare for herring to take natural bait.

Lures: Herring will take very small feather or sabiki lures and can also be caught on plain silver hooks.


Herring Clupea harengus Sild Sill, strömming Sild Hering Herang


Haring Arenque Aringa Syeldz Síld Arenque

John Dory – Zeus faber

Distinguishing features: The john dory has a narrow rounded body with a large protrusible mouth. The

first dorsal fin is large with 9 to 10 spines and there is another spiny fin on the lower edge. The sides

have a light background interspersed with greenish brown patches and the ventral side is a greyish

silver. There is a black “thumb-mark” on either side which is surrounded by a yellow ring. The

membranes on the anal and pelvic fins are black.

Size: The john dory can reach lengths in excess of 60 cm and weights of 5 kilo or more.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/john-dory.htm

Distribution: This species ranges from the south western waters of Scandinavia down through the

Mediterranean to the north west coast of Africa. It normally lives of around 10 to 50 metres and will

often hunt in mid-water.

Food: The John Dory feeds mainly on small fish.

Baits: This fish is normally an accidental capture and has been taken on fish baited feathers.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/john-dory.htm�


John Dory Zeus faber St. Petersfisk Sanktpersfisk Sanktpetersfisk Europäischer Heringskönig

Jean Doré,


sint-Pietervis Gall De La Mar Pesce San Pietro Solnechnik Not available Alfaquete

Regional Names - Dory, St Peter’s Fish

Ling - Molva molva

Distinguishing features: The ling is a long bodied fish with one short anterior dorsal fin, 14 to 15 rays

and one long fin towards the tail. It has a single chin barbel and the lower jaw does not project. The

back and sides are a brownish green colour and the rear dorsal and anal fins have a lighter edge.

There is a darkish spot on the first dorsal and to a lesser extent on the second dorsal and anal fins.

Size: Can grow to a length of two metres and weigh around 40 kg.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/ling.htm

Habitat: The ling lives in the colder waters from the English Channel north to Norway and Iceland. It

can be found in depths from 20 metres down to 300 metres. It prefers rocky ground and is frequently

found on and around wrecks.

Food: Diet consists mainly of demersal fish but will also eat crustaceans.

Baits: Fish baits, mackerel in particular are most effective for ling.

Lures: Ling will take pirks particularly when baited and are attracted to baited spoons.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/ling.htm�


Ling Molva molva Lange Långa Lange Leng Lingue


Leng Maruca Molva Mól’va Langa Maruca

Regional Names - Ollock

Further Reading

Species spotlight: Ling

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/ling.htm�

Mackerel - Scomber scombrus

Distinguishing features: The Mackerel is one of the most readily recognised sea fish in the North

Atlantic due to it being a popular bait fish as well as a target species for anglers. The body has

cylindrical cross section and tapers from the mid point to the head and tail. The first dorsal fin has 11-

13 rays and five finlets start to the rear of the second dorsal and anal fin. This fish is brightly coloured

when live and the back is a blue-green with irregular dark bands down the back and sides. The lower

sides and belly are a white with iridescent hues.

Size: Although the Mackerel can reach a weight of 3 kg it’s more normal for the angler to catch fish

around 500gms.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/mackerel.htm

Distribution: This prolific migratory fish is found all over the North Atlantic from the edges of the

continental shelf and down to North Africa. It is a pelagic species and can be found throughout the

water column. It migrates north and inshore in the summer and in the reverse direction in winter.

Food: Mackerel feed on small fish such as sprats and mackerel as well as pelagic crustaceans such a

shrimps.

Baits: Mackerel will happily take small strips of fish including its own species.

Lures: Anglers commonly use feather type lures either true feathers or artificial ones such as sabikis.

Silver metal spinners and pirks will also take Mackerel as will small redgill style lures.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/mackerel.htm�


Mackerel Scomber scombrus Makrell Makrill Makrel Makrele Maquereau


Makreel Cabellas Maccarello Makryel Makríll sarda

Regional Names - Shiners, Moggs

Mullet, Golden Grey - Liza aurata

Distinguishing features: The golden grey mullet is the smallest of the three mullets found in Northern

European waters. It has the typical mullet body shape and the pectoral fin, when folded forwards

covers the back half of the eye. The colouration is the same as the thin-lipped mullet but it lacks the

spot at the pectoral fin and has a prominent gold blotch on either side of the head.

Size: Grows to a length of around 45 cm and a weight of 2 kg.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/mulletgolden.htm

Habitat: It is most common around the English Channel and the south west of England and Wales. It

will range as far south as the Mediterranean. While it will be found around harbours and river mouths

it is not frequently found in rivers unlike the other two mullet species. It is regularly found off sandy

beaches.

Food: The golden grey mullet feeds on algae, small worms and vegetation.

Baits: Small bunches of harbour ragworm are effective baits, particularly from beaches. Bread and

other baits as for the thick-lipped grey mullet can also produce fish.


Mullet, Golden Grey

Liza aurata Gullmulte Guldmulte Guldmulte Goldmeeräsche Not available



http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/mulletgolden.htm�

Mullet, Thick-lipped Grey - Chelon labrosus

Distinguishing features: The torpedo shaped body of the thick-lipped mullet is covered with large

scales. The anterior of the two dorsal fins has four spines. The upper lip is broad and more than half

of the diameter of the eye in depth. The pectoral fin covers most of the eye when folded forward. Its

back varies from dark green to bluey grey merging into grey stripes running from the gills to the tail

over a silver background. Other than the anal fin, grey, those on the ventral side are white.

Size: The thick-lipped mullet can grow to about 80 cm and attain a weight of around 6 kg.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/mulletgrey.htm

Habitat: It is a summer migrating species which can be found in the coastal waters around the UK,

France, and Spain and down the Mediterranean and North West Africa. It is commonly found in

harbours, estuaries and other inshore water.

Food: Feeds on vegetative matter, plankton, worms, copepods, small crustaceans and molluscs.

Bait: A wide range of baits can be used for this mullet depending upon the locality. Bread in particular

is widely used but small fish baits and ragworm can also be effective. Maggots, sweetcorn and other

freshwater type baits have landed mullet. They respond well to groundbaiting.

Lures: The mullet can be taken by fly fishing particularly when feeding on the maggots of seaweed

flies

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/mulletgrey.htm�


Mullet, Thicklip Grey

Chelon labrosus Multe,tykkleppet Tjockläppad multe

Tyklæbet multe

Dicklippige meeräsche

Not available



Further Reading..

Where there’s muck there’s mullet

Horn of plenty

http://www.planetseafishing.com/features/read/where-theres-muck-theres-mullet/�

http://www.planetseafishing.com/features/read/horn-of-plenty/�

Mullet, Thin-lipped Grey - Liza ramada

Distinguishing features: The thin-lipped mullet has the typical mullet body shape and scales. The

pectoral fin does not reach the eye when folded backwards. The upper lip is less than half of the

diameter of the eye in depth. There is dark spot at the base of the pectoral fin and greyish blue colour

on the back merges into silver on the sides with faint grey stripes.

Size: This mullet can reach a length of 65 cm and a weight of around 3.5 kg.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/mulletgreythinlipped.htm

Habitat: Is most common off the coast of France and the Mediterranean but ranges north to the coast

of Ireland, England, the North Sea and into the Baltic Sea. It is happy in estuaries and can be found well

up rivers.

Food: It feeds on the same organisms as the thick-lipped mullet.

Baits: As for thick-lipped grey mullet.

Lures: Although not strictly lure fishing a small mepps type spoon fitted with a single hook and baited

with harbour ragworm will take thin-lipped grey mullet.


Mullet, Thinlip Grey

Liza ramado Multe,tynnleppet Tunnläppad multe

Tyndlæbet multe

Dünnlippige meeräsche

Not available



http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/mulletgreythinlipped.htm�

Pollack - Pollachius pollachius

Distinguishing features: The pollack has the typical cod family shape with 3 dorsal fins and two anal

fins. The lower jaw protrudes further than the upper one and has no barbel. The colouration varies

according to the waters in which the pollack inhabits, from brownish-green on the back and

yellowish-green on the sides to reddish, gold colours in fish which live in kelp covered ground. In

smaller fish the colours are patchy and tend towards golden. The dark lateral line curves sharply down

to the middle of the body over the pectoral fin.

Size: The pollack can reach sizes of 140cm and weights in excess of 14 kg however the shore angler

can expect to target fish averaging around 2 kg and the a good specimen from the boat would scale 5

kg.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/pollack.htm

Distribution: The habitat of the pollack tends to close to rocks, piers or rough ground with the biggest

specimens normally found over wrecks or deep water reefs. Adult specimens can be found at depths

ranging from the surface to over 100 metres deep. The smaller fish will inhabit the inshore waters

including sandy areas. The pollack will spawn in deep water from January to April. They can be found

from the Mediterranean to as far north as the Arctic Circle.

Food: Fish form the main source of food for pollack, particularly sandeels and members of the cod and

herring families. Recently on the north and east coasts of the UK large numbers of pipefish form a

major part of the diet. They will also forage on the sea bed for crustaceans.

Baits: Sandeels, fresh or frozen, make an excellent bait for pollack both from the boat and shore. In

shallow water a single ragworm will often produce good bags of fish from the rocks or over offshore

reefs. Similarly a belly strip of mackerel slow retrieved can be deadly. Large specimens are taken

occasionally on fish baits being used for other species.

Lures: Plastic or rubber worms, eels such as the redgill, or shads can be very effective on a flowing

trace either slowly retrieved back to the boat or spun deeply from the shore.

The shore angler can also find success using a metal spoon spun over kelp covered rocks, elongated

silver or copper ones normally produce best bags.

A favourite among the Scottish competition anglers for inshore pollack is to fish with two or three

redgills or plastic worms fished paternoster style above a fluttering, hookless pirk.


Pollack Pollachius pollachius Lyr Lyrtorsk, bleka Lubbe, lyssej, blåsej

Polack Lieu jaune


Vlaswijting Abadejo Merluzzogiallo Sayda Lýr Juliana

Regional Names - Lythie, Lythe, Coalsey, Podler , Piltock, Stedlock, Cuden, Cooth, Harbin, Whiting

Pollock

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/pollack.htm�

Poor-cod - Trisopterus minutus

Distinguishing features: The poor cod is a mini-species from the cod family with three dorsal fins and

two anal fins. The base of the first anal fin starts beneath the space between the first and second

dorsal fins and the upper jaw overlaps the lower. The back is a yellowish-brown with the sides tending

towards a copper colour and the belly is silvery grey. Its scales tend to come off on the hand when

touched but the fin position should be used as the main guide when distinguishing between this

species and the pouting.

Size: Poor cod reach a maximum length of around 26 cm but between 15 and 20 cm is more common.

Distribution: Poor cod are very common in the waters of the eastern North Atlantic in depths of

between 25 to 200 metres. It is less common close to the shore than the pouting.

Food: Its food consists mainly of small fish and crustaceans.

Baits: Poor cod will take almost any small baits including crab, worms, fish and squid.

Lures: Like the pouting, poor cod will happily take small sabiki lures fished hard on the bottom.


Poor Cod Trisopterus minutus Sypike Glyskolja Glyse Zwergdorsch Not available


Not available Not available Not available Not available Not available Fanecão

Pouting - Trisopterus luscus

Distinguishing features: The pouting is a deep bodied member of the cod family with three dorsal fins

and two anal fins which all overlap at the base. The start of the front anal fin is well forward, below the

middle of the first dorsal. The pelvic fin is long and reaches past the anal vent. These latter two

characteristics are the easiest way to differentiate between a small pouting and its close relative the

poor cod. Coloration in the adult is generally a coppery-brown with four or five darker bands across

the upper body and a black spot at the base of the pectoral fin. Younger pout tend to be more silver

grey in colour and the bands may be absent.

Size: Pouting can reach a maximum weight of around 3 kg but the average size from the boat is about

1 kg and less than half of that from the shore.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/pouting.htm

Distribution: Pout are very common in the waters around the English Channel and southern North Sea

with the small fish being found in shallow water with a sandy bottom. Larger fish tend to shoal near or

over rocks and wrecks. They can be found anywhere from the shoreline to depths of 300 metres and

spawns in March to April.

Food: Its food consists mainly of small squid, fish and crustaceans with shrimps a particular favourite.

Baits: Pouting can be veracious feeders and will take most baits but fish strips and squid will take the

larger specimens. Using worm baits, lugworm or rag can be very effective for shore fishing or smaller

fish from the boat. It’s not unusual for large pout to take a whole mackerel flapper when fishing for

conger.

Lures: Although not normally a target for the lures fisherman, pouting will happily take small sabiki

lures or mini-eels fished hard on the bottom.


Pouting Trisopterus luscus Skjeggtorsk Skäggtorsk Skægtorsk Bartdorsch Tacaud


Steenbolk Faneca Merluzzo francese Tresótsjka Skeggur Faneca

Regional Names - Scotchies, Scotch Haddock, Bleg, White Eyes, Gilligant, Brown Bream

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/pouting.htm�

Red Mullet - Mullus surmuletus

Distinguishing features: The red mullet is a slim, narrow bodied fish with an angled front to the head.

The large scales are easily dislodged and there are two long barbels below its chin. The colour is a

reddish brown to deep red with yellowish stripes along its body together with a single darker red

stripe. The colours may merge into blotchy patches.

Size: Red mullet can attain weights of around a kilogram.

Distribution: Although found around the UK and North Sea coasts it is most plentiful south of the

English Channel down through the Mediterranean to the north west coast of Africa. It inhabits muddy

or sandy seabeds in depths from below the low water mark to around 100 metres.

Food: This species feeds mainly on invertebrates and crustaceans which it roots from the seabed.

Baits: Soft baits such as worms or peeler crabs will on occasion take this species.

Greater Sandeel - Hyperoplus launceolatus

Distinguishing features: As its name suggests the greater sandeel has an elongated eel shaped body

and is the largest of the European sandeels. Unlike other sandeels the upper jaw is not protrusible and

it has a couple of teeth on the roof of the mouth. The dorsal fin extends from behind the pectoral fin

to almost reach the tail and the lateral line, situated towards the belly, is continuous. The back and

upper sides wary from blueish-green to green and the belly is a silvery white. There is a dark spot on

the side of the head.

Size: The greater sandeel can reach lengths of 30cm or more.

Distribution: This sandeel ranges widely from the north coast of Spain to the waters around Iceland

and the north of Norway. It is generally found over sandy bottoms in depths from just a few metres to

150 metres.

Food: The greater sandeel feeds mainly on planktonic species but larger specimens will include small

fish in their diets.

Baits: Very small fish baits can be used to take this sandeel.

Lures: Small sabiki style lures are the most effective method targeting the greater sandeel particularly

those which include white and silver in their makeup.


Greater Sandeel

Hyperoplus launceolatus

Storsil Tobiskung Tobiskonge Großer Sandaal Lançon Commun


Zandspiering Lanzon Cicerello песчанка болшая Sandsíli Sandilho

Regional Names - Launce, sandeel

Scad - Trachurus trachurus

Distinguishing features: Although also know as the horse mackerel the scad is from a totally different

family to the Atlantic mackerel. The body shape is similar but two dorsal fins are close together with

the front one being spiny and the posterior one being large and stretching down to the tail. It has a

large anal fin with two conjoined spins to its anterior. The scad has a large pectoral fin and series of

large boney scales along the lateral line. The back is a blue grey with a greenish tinge fading into

silvery sides and a white belly.

Size: The maximum size for scad is around 1.5 kg but the majority of captures are less than half that

size.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/scad.htm

Distribution: The scad can be found throughout the southern end of the eastern North Atlantic and

south as far as the west coast of Africa. It is pelagic and can be found throughout the water column

although it’s more common in the upper layers. It is found in water less than 100 metres deep.

Food: Scad feed on small fish, crustaceans and squid.

Baits: Small fish baits will produce scad as will ragworm and squid strips.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/scad.htm�

Lures: As with their namesake, the mackerel, scad will regularly take feathers and other small lures.


Scad Trachurus trachurus

Taggmakrell hestemakrell

Taggmakrill Hestemakrel Bastardmakrele, Stöcker

Chinchard


Horsmakreel Jureles Suro Not available Not available Chicharro, carapau

Regional Names - Buck mackerel, Horse Mackerel, Mossbanker, Skipper

Sea Scorpion, Short Spined - Myoxocephalus scorpius

Distinguishing features: This member of the sculpin family is one of the largest found in European

waters. It has a large head and rounded body which tapers down to the tail fin. The mouth is very large

for the size of the fish. It has two short spines on the anterior opercula bone and one larger one on the

gill cover. The gill covers are connected on the underside by a fleshy membrane. There are also

numerous small spines on either side of the lateral line. The colouration varies from red on the belly of

the male to more orange on the female and there are several white spots. The back is generally a

greenish brown with darker blotches.

Size: The short spined sea scorpion can reach lengths of around 60 cm in northern waters and can

reach weights of over 2 kilos.

Distribution: Found in cooler waters from the English Channel to inside the Arctic Circle. Can be found

from the shoreline to depths of 60 metres and it is found over a mixture of different sea beds.

Food: This species of sea scorpion feeds on small fish and crustaceans.

Baits: Worms, mussels and fish baits are effective for this species.


Short Spined Sea Scorpion

Myoxocephalus scorpius

Vanlig Ulke Ulk Almindelig Ulk Gemeiner Seeskorpion

Not available


Zeedonderpad Not available Not available Evropeiskiy Kerchak Marhnotur Not available

Regional Names - Sea Scorp, Father Lasher, Snotch, Cluggie, Bull-rout

Sea Scorpion, Long Spined - Taurulus bubalis

Distinguishing features: A comparatively small member of the sculpin family the long spined sea

scorpion has a hard, bony head with a single long spine on the preoperculum. The membrane under

the gill covers is not continuous from side to side and separates at the throat. There are small spines

on the lateral line itself. The colour on the upper side varies from red to greenish brown and merges to

yellow on the ventral side.

Size: The long spined sea scorpion reaches lengths of around 18 cm.

Distribution: Its habitat covers rocky inshore areas from the north coast of Spain northwards to inside

the Arctic Circle. Can be found in tidal pools and under rocks below the high water mark.

Food: This sea scorpion feeds on small fish and crustaceans.

Baits: Although not a target species small Worm and fish baits will take this species.

Tusk - Brosme brosme

Distinguishing features: The tusk is a muscular, solid bodied fish with a single long dorsal and anal fin

which meet the tail fin. It has a single chin barbel. The lateral line curves downwards above the vent.

The fins have a dark band and white edges. The body is generally a greyish brown or green colour with

occasional yellow flashes.

Size: Can attain a length of over one metre and weights of around 16 kg.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/torsk.htm

Habitat: It is a cold water species found mostly north of Scotland and up to the Arctic Circle and

Iceland. It prefers water from 50 to 200 metres deep over rocky mixed ground.

Food: The tusk feeds mainly on crustaceans, small fish and molluscs.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/torsk.htm�

Baits: Oily fish baits such as mackerel, herring and blueys make effective baits for tusk.

Lures: Tusk will take pirks and shads fished close to the bottom.


Tusk Brosme brosme Brosme Lubb Brosme Lumb Not available


Not available Brosmio Not available Menjók Keila Bolota

Regional Names - Torsk, Rubber Mannies

Trigger Fish - Balistes capriscus

Distinguishing features: The trigger fish is well named as the second of the three spines on the first

dorsal can act as a trigger and locks the strong sharp first spine as a defensive measure. The body is

deep and narrow with a small spin in place of the pelvic fins. It has a large second dorsal, tail and anal

fins. The body is generally a greeny brown or grey colour and the dorsal and anal fins have a blue line

along their base.

Size: Can grow to a length of over 40 cm and reach weights of 2.7 kg.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/triggerfish.htm

Habitat: This trigger fish is found from the west coast of Africa, into the Mediterranean and north into

the English Channel and Atlantic west coast of the UK. It is a summer migratory fish in the northern

half of its range. It lives mainly on mixed rough ground and is frequently found in the same areas as

black bream.

Food: Feeds mainly on crabs, shrimps and other crustaceans.

Baits: Peeler crab work well for triggers and they can also be caught on small squid, worm and

mackerel baits.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/triggerfish.htm�


Triggerfish Balistes carolinensis Not available Not available Not available Not available Baliste / Alutère


Trekkervis pez Ballesta Pesce Balestra Not available Not available Not available

Greater Weever – Trachinus draco

Photo courtesy of David Groom

Distinguishing features: The greater weever has a fairly slender body and the smaller ones are not

dissimilar to a whiting. It has a smallish head with a comparatively large almost vertical mouth. Two

poisonous spines (one one each side) are situated at the rear edge of the gills, pointing downward. In

addition there are two other poisonous spines on the prominent frontal dorsal fin. The general

colouration is a sandy brown and white to cream with darkish mottled stripes and on occasion the

sides and fins can be tinged with blue. The anterior dorsal is very dark.

Size: The maximum size for the greater weever is around 40cm.

Distribution: The greater weever can to be found around the Atlantic coast of Europe and throughout

the Mediterranean waters. It is commonly found over sandy seabeds from around 10 metres to depths

of 100 metres. It buries most of its body in the sand during the day and mostly emerges to feed after

dark when it may be pelagic.

Food: The weever feeds heavily on small crustaceans and fish including sandeels and gobies.

Baits: Small fish baits will attract the weever wrasse although they are normally taken when targeting

other species.

Whiting - Merlangius merlangus

Distinguishing features: The whiting is a slim bodied member of the cod family with three dorsal fins

which are joined. It has two anal fins the first of which is long and the first edge starts below the mid

point of the first dorsal. The small barbel in the young whiting disappears in the adults. There is a

black spot at the base of the pectoral fin. The silvery white colour on the belly and sides merge into a

light copper brown or greeny blue on the back.

Size: The whiting can reach a weight of about 3 kg and a maximum length of around 70 cm.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/whiting.htm

Habitat: The whiting can form prolific shoals in depths of 30 to 100 metres but can be found both

shallower and deeper. It is found from the waters around Iceland and Norway down to the

Mediterranean. It will happily live on the bottom or into mid-water over seabeds of sand or mud.

Food: Feeds mainly on small fish such as sandeels, herring and sprats but will also eat shrimps and

other crustaceans.

Baits: Whiting are not particularly fussy when it comes to bait but lugworm, squid and mackerel will

normally produce particularly when used as a cocktail.

Lures: Whiting will occasionally be caught on small feathers and pirks.


Whiting Merlangius merlangus

Hvitting Vitling Hvilling Wittling Merlan


Wijting Merlan Merlano Merlang Lýsa Badejo

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/whiting.htm�

Ballan Wrasse – Labrus bergylta

Distinguishing features: The ballan wrasse is a deep bodied, fully scaled member of the Labridae

family with a pointed but not elongated mouth which contains prominent teeth and thick lips. More

crushing teeth are to be found on the pharyngeal bones in the throat. The colour of the ballan varies

from venue to venue and may range from greeny-brown through green to red. The underside and the

fins are spotted with white. The spiny first dorsal has 19 to 20 rays and the posterior one 9 to 11.

Size: The maximum size for a ballan wrasse is around the 5kg mark but any fish over 3kg would be an

excellent specimen.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/wrasseballan.htm

Distribution: The ballan is to be found around European waters including the coast of Denmark,

Sweden and Norway. The best fishing is to be found on the Atlantic coast of the UK and France. It is

commonly found near to rocks and reefs from around 2 metres to depths of 25 metres. The adult is

normally a solitary fish and is territorial.

Food: The ballan feeds heavily on crustaceans, especially small crabs and molluscs.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/wrasseballan.htm�

Baits: Crabs, both peeler and hardback are the most effective bait for the larger ballan wrasse. The

hardbacks will generally sort out the larger specimens. Ragworm and lugworm also make an effective

bait for this species although it is more susceptible to the smaller fish. Ballans will occasionally take

fish baits but they would never be relied upon as bait for this wrasse.

Lures: Ballan wrasse will occasionally take lures especially short, stumpy plugs but it’s unusual for an

angler to target them without bait. One theory is that with the wrasse being territorial, it is chasing off

a competitor rather than attempting to feed.


Wrasse, Ballan Labrus bergylta Berggylt Berggylta Berggylt Gefleckter Lippfisch

Not available



Regional Names - Sea Soo

Corkwing Wrasse - Symphodus melops

Distinguishing features: A deep bodied fully scaled wrasse, the corkwing has 3 spines at the front of

its anal fin and 8 to 10 softer ones to the rear. The rear edge of the gill cover is sharp and serrated.

The colouration varies depending upon the habitat but is usually green, reddish green or greeny-

brown and the males tend to have blueish lines on their lower halves. There are dark blotches behind

the eye and on the tail either on or below the lateral line.

Size: The corkwing may reach lengths of 25cm and weigh up to 450gms.

Distribution: The corkwing wrasse can to be found around the coasts of northern Europe and down to

the western end of the Mediterranean. Its usual habitat features rocks and will be found in depths from

the low water mark down to 30 metres. Like a number of other small wrasse species eel grass is also a

favoured haunt.

Food: The corkwing feeds heavily on small crustaceans and molluscs.

Baits: Small worm baits are effective for this wrasse although they are normally taken when targeting

larger wrasse such as the ballan.


Corkwing Wrasse

Symphodus melops

Grønaade Skorsnultra Småmundet Gylte

Goldmaid Cronilabre Melops


Zwartooglipvis Porredano Tordo Occhionero Not available Not available Bodião-Vulgar

Cuckoo Wrasse - Labrus mixtus

Male Cuckoo Wrasse

Distinguishing features: The Cuckoo Wrasse is one of the most distinctively coloured of the cold water

wrasse species with the male in particular taking on tropical hues. The male has bright blue to purple

markings on the head and body over a background which can vary from yellow to orange and green.

The females are more subdued and tend to an overall reddish orange with a black line along the dorsal

towards the tail broken up by lighter spots; the fins may also have a blue border. Immature males

have a similar colouring to the female but without the dorsal markings. The Cuckoo Wrasse is

streamlined with a pointed head and protruding mouth which contains canine teeth. There are 16-18

spines in anterior section of the dorsal fin and 11-14 in the posterior section.

Size: Cuckoo Wrasse are generally a small fish but can reach weights of over 1 kg.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/wraseecuckoo.htm

Distribution: The Cuckoo Wrasse can be found in depths from 2 to 200 metres but if most frequent

from 20 to 80 metres. It prefers mixed ground and rocky areas.

Food: The Cuckoo Wrasse feeds mostly on small crustaceans and molluscs.

Baits: Although worms and peeler crab will take Cuckoo Wrasse a strip of mackerel is the mostly likely

bait to secure one of this species.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/wraseecuckoo.htm�


Wrasse, Cuckoo

Labrus bimaculatus

Blåstål/rødnebb Blågylta/ rödnäbba

Blåstak/rødnæb Kuckucks Lippfisch

Not available



Futher Reading ..

Wrasse-ster Blaster

Female Cuckoo Wrasse

http://www.planetseafishing.com/features/read/wrasse-ster-blaster/�

Goldsinny – Ctentolabrus rupestris

Distinguishing features: The goldsinny has a fairly slender body with an angled head with a

comparatively large mouth. The anal fin has 3 to 4 rays with spines at the anterior and 7 to 8 softer

ones to the posterior. Its colour tends to be reddish or orangey brown with a dark spot towards the

front of the dorsal fin and on the upper surface of the root of tail fin.

Size: The maximum size for the goldsinny is around 18cm.

Distribution: The goldsinny wrasse can to be found around the Atlantic coast of Europe and

throughout the Mediterranean waters. It is commonly found near to rocks and reefs with algae growths

from around 10 metres to depths of 50 metres. It may also be found close inshore in rock pools and in

beds of eel grass. It is known to act as a cleaner fish for other species.

Food: Like most wrasse the goldsinny feeds heavily on small crustaceans and other benthic

invertebrates.

Baits: Small worm baits are effective for this wrasse although they are normally taken when targeting

other species.

Regional Names - Salmon wrasse

Rock Cook – Centrolabrus exoletus

Distinguishing features: The rock cook is a small deep-bodied wrasse with thick lips on a small

mouth, it’s also known as the small mouth wrasse. The mouth extends to less than half the distance to

the eye. It only has one row of small teeth. The anal fin has 4 to 6 rays with spines at the anterior and

6 to 8 softer ones to the posterior. Its colour varies from green through brown to red on the upper

back fading into yellow on the underside. Larger males have extensive blue blotches particularly on

the head and on the upper fins. There is a dark semi-circular mark on the tail with a lighter band

adjacent to this and on the edge of the fin.

Size: The maximum size for a rock cook is around 15cm.

Distribution: This wrasse can to be found around European waters including the western coasts of the

UK, Ireland, Spain, France, Denmark, Sweden and Norway. It is commonly found near to rocks and

reefs with algae growths and in eel grass beds from around 2 metres to depths of 25 metres. It is

known to act as a cleaner fish for other species.

Food: The rock cook feeds heavily on small crustaceans and other benthic invertebrates.

Baits: Small crab and worm baits are effective for this wrasse although they are normally taken when

targeting other species.


Rock Cook Centrolabrus exoletus

Bergnebb Not available Småmundet Gylte

Kleinmäuliger Lippfisch

Petite Vieille


Not available Centrolabro Tordo Not available Not available Not available

Regional Names - Small mouth wrasse

Brill - Scophthalmus rhombus

Distinguishing features: The brill is a close relative of the turbot which it resembles however its body

is scaled and lacks the boney protuberances. The first rays of the dorsal fin are free from membranes

in their upper half. The dorsal fin has 73-83 rays and the anal 56- 62. The underside is a creamy

white and the upper side a sandy brown with spots which do not extend on to the tail fin. The fins

tend to be lighter than the body. The body of the brill is more oval than the turbot.

Size: The maximum weight is around 7 kg and length is 75 cm.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/brill.htm

Distribution: The turbot can be found in the eastern North Atlantic, North Sea, and Baltic Sea and

down to the Mediterranean. It inhabits water from the shoreline to depths of around 70 metres where

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/brill.htm�

the seabed is composed mainly of sand and occasionally gravel, mud or a mixture of these. Larger

specimens are found on offshore sandbanks.

Food: The brill feeds extensively on fish, particularly sandeels together with crustaceans and squid.

Bait: Long thin fillets of mackerel or launce are a favourite bait as are live or dead large sandeels.


Brill Scophthalmus rhombus

Slettvar Slätvar Slethvarre Glatbutt, Kleist Barbue


Griet Rémol Romboli Gládkij romb Slétthverfa Rodovalho

Further Reading..

Brills and Spills

http://www.planetseafishing.com/features/read/brills-and-spills/�

Dab – Limanda limanda

Distinguishing features: The Dab belongs to the family of flatfish called Pleuronectidae which are all

right-eyed flatfish, the eye migrates over the head when young and finishes on the right hand side of

the head (when viewed from the front). In comparison to its moderate sized head the Dab has a small

mouth. The colouration can vary from a sandy brown with yellow spots to a gray-brown with darker

speckles. The underside is white and slightly translucent. The lateral line has a D-shaped curve above

the pectoral fin and the skin is rough to touch on the upper side.

Size: In suitable waters the bad can grow to over 40 cm in length and attain a weight of 1.5kg but the

more normal size that the angler will encounter is around 25 cm.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/dab.htm

Distribution: The bad is probably the most abundant flatfish in the waters of northern Europe

especially in the North Sea and the waters around Iceland. It tends to favour sandy grounds with

depths of around 20-40 metres but the smaller specimens will be found shallower than this. Adults

tend to move inshore in the early summer after spawning and although not a shoal fish where the

angler finds one Dab there are usually more about.

Food: The Dab is voracious feeder and will eat almost any small bottom living invertebrate that it

comes across. Small crustaceans, worms, sandeels and molluscs form the bulk of its diet.

Baits: When in a feeding mood Dabs will take most baits but fish baits in general and mackerel strip in

particular from the boat. When shore fishing lugworm, particularly stale, sticky worms, will produce

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/dab.htm�

most fish. Other worms such as rag and white rag can also be productive and mussel is always worth

trying particularly in the north of Scotland. Squid and razor fish will also attract the hungry Dab.

Whichever bait chosen it should be of a size to match the small mouth of this species.


Dab Limanda limanda Sandflyndre Sandskädda Ising, slette Scharbe, Kliesche

Limande


Schar Limanda Limanda Limánda Sandkoli Solhão

Flounder - Pleuronectes flesus

Distinguishing features: The Flounder is a flatfish and normally a dull brown or greenish-brown on its

upper side and occasionally faint red spots can be found. The underside is opaque and a dull white

although brownish discolouration is not unusual. There are small sharp knobs along the edges of the

fins and along the straight lateral line. Although the Flounder is a right-eyed flatfish it can be found

with the eyes on the left side. It can hybridise with the plaice.

Size: The Flounder can attain a size of 50 cm and a weight of around 3 kg. The shore angler is more

likely to find fish around the half kilo mark and any fish of over 1 kg is a good specimen.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/flounder.htm

Distribution: The Flounder can survive in water which is only slightly saline and will happily frequent

estuaries. Although it will inhabit depths of up to 50 metres the majority will be found in depths of

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/flounder.htm�

less than 15 metres and will often be found at the angler’s feet. It tends to prefer areas where the sea

bed is composed of sand or mud. It breeds in deeper water in the spring time.

Food: The Flounder will feed on a wide range of bottom living animals including molluscs, worms and

crustaceans such as sand hoppers and shrimps.

Baits: Flounders, although avid feeders can be very fussy when it comes to baits. On one venue peeler

crab, in season, may be the only bait touched whereas on another beach a bunch of maddies may be

the killer. Worms, either lug or rag, are generally a good bet for Flounders and can be particularly

effective when cocktailed with fish strip. A strip of herring or mackerel on its own can also produce

good numbers of fish at some venues.


Flounder Platichthys flesus Skrubbe Skrubbskädda Skrubbe Flunder, butt Flet


Bot Platija Passera Pianuzza Not available Not available Solha das pedras

Regional Names - Fluke

Halibut – Hippoglossus hippoglossus

Distinguishing features: The halibut is the largest of the flatfishes and has a thick but comparatively

slender body. The eyes are on the right side of the head. The tail fin is slightly concave. The mouth

contains large teeth and the lower jaw is prominent. The lateral line has a pronounced D-shaped curve

above the pectoral fin. The topside of the halibut is a greenish-brown to dark brown and the

underside is pearly white.

Size: The halibut can reach weights of over 300 kilos.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/halibut.htm

Distribution: This halibut is throughout the continental shelf of the north Atlantic from the south west

of the UK up into the Arctic Circle. It is found in greatest numbers in depths between 40 to 200 metres

but inhabits depths of over 1000 metres. It lives over a range of seabeds including sand, rock and

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/halibut.htm�

gravel. While, like most flatfish, it spends time on the seabed the halibut is an active predator and will

hunt its prey in mid-water.

Food: The halibut feeds extensively on fish but also includes squid, prawns and other crustaceans in

its diet.

Baits: Fish baits including whole live and dead baits are effective for halibut.

Lures: Halibut will take lures in particular pirks and baited versions can be particularly effective. Some

Swedish anglers fishing in Norway have had good results when trolling with large plugs (crankbaits).


Halibut Hippoglossus hippoglossus

Kveite Helgeflundra Helleflynder Heilbutt Fletan Atlantique


Heilbot Hipogloso Halibut Not available Heilagfiski Alabote

Regional Names - Butt

Lemon Sole – Microstomus kitt

Distinguishing features: The lemon sole has an oval shaped body that is sandy brown in colour with

darker brown blotches and yellow and green spots on the back, the underside is white. It has a small

head and mouth with prominent lips. The lateral line curves slightly above the pectoral fin.

Size: The lemon sole reaches lengths over 60 cm and weights of around one kilo.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/solelemon.htm

Distribution: This flatfish is found throughout European and Scandinavian waters and is most common

in the colder northern waters. Although smaller specimens can be found near the shore the larger fish

tend to frequent sand, gravel and rocky mixed bottoms in depths between 40 and 200 metres.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/solelemon.htm�

Food: The lemon sole feeds mainly on worms but also includes small crustaceans and molluscs in its

diet.

Baits: Worm and fish baits are the most effective way of attracting this species.


Lemon Sole Microstomus kitt Bergflyndre Bergtunga Rødtunge Limande Limande-Sole


Tongschar Mendo Limón Sogliola Limanda камбала малоротая fiykkvalúra Solha-Limão

Regional Names – Lemons

Long Rough Dab – Hippoglossoides platessoides

Distinguishing features: The long rough dab is a slender bodied, right sided flatfish. The eyes and

mouth are relatively large compared to the smallish head. There is a slight curve to the lateral line at

the pectoral fin and the sharp edged scales give the fish its name. The upper surface is brown colour

which varies in shade depending upon its habitat.

Size: The long rough dab can reach lengths of 50 cm.

Distribution: This species is found in the North Atlantic from the English Channel northwards. The

northern reaches of its range hosts the greatest numbers. The further north they are the more likely

that they will be found in shallow waters and they inhabit depths 0f 4 to 400 metres. It lives on

seabeds comprising sand or mud.

Food: The long rough dab feeds mainly on small crustaceans, worms and molluscs with the occasional

fish adding to the diet.

Baits: Small fish and worm baits are effective baits although they are normally taken when targeting

other flatfish.


Long Rough Dab

Hippoglossoides platessoides

Gapeflyndre Lerflundra Almindelig Håising

Doggerscharbe Balai


Lange Schar Platija Americana Passera Canadese Not available Skrápflúra Solha Americana

Regional Names - American Plaice

Megrim - Lepidorhombus whiffiagonis

Distinguishing features: The megrim is a thin bodied, left eyed flatfish with a large extendable mouth

and large eyes. The last two rays of the dorsal and anal fins finish on the underside of the fish. The

upper side is a sandy brown colour with darker patches and the underside is white.

Size: The megrim can attain a length of around 60 cm.

Habitat: Can be found over muddy and sandy bottoms in depths from 20 to 300 metres. Its range is

from the waters around Iceland and Norway down to the Mediterranean.

Food: The diet of the megrim consists mainly of small fish such as sandeels, gobies and small

whiting. It will also feed on squid and crustaceans.

Bait: Mackerel strip is the best bait for targeting megrim.


Megrim Lepidorhombus whiffiagonis

Glassvar Glasvar Glashvarre Flügelbutt Cardine


Schartong Lliseria Rombo Giallo Megrím Megrim Areeiro

Plaice - Pleuronectes platessa

Distinguishing features: The plaice is a typical round bodied, right eyed flatfish. The upper side is a

sandy brown with prominent red or orange spots. The underside is a pearlescent white. There is a line

of boney knobs between the upper edge of the gill cover and the eyes.

Size: Plaice can grow to a weight in excess of 7 kg but it’s more likely that the angler will take fish

around the kilo mark from the boat and half that from the shore.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/plaice.htm

Distribution: Plaice like sandy sea beds but will also inhabit muddy and gravel areas. While it will be

found in depth down to 200 metres it’s most common from 10 to 50 metres.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/plaice.htm�

Food: Plaice feed on a wide range of bottom living organisms including crustaceans, worms, sandeel

and molluscs. They have a habit if nipping the spouts off shellfish such as razorfish.

Baits: Worms, rag, lug and white rag, are generally the first choice for the angler targeting plaice. A

particular favourite is ragworm with a long thin strip of squid on the bend of the hook, a parcel of

peeler crab is sometimes used at the head of the cocktail. In certain areas, particularly off the Scottish

west coast islands mackerel strip can be effective.


Plaice Pleuronectes platessa Rødspette Rödspätta Rødspætte Scholle Plie, carrelet


Schol Solla Passera Kámbala morskája Rauðspretta Solha

Length / Weight Chart - http://www.planetseafishing.com/downloads/plaice.pdf

http://www.planetseafishing.com/downloads/plaice.pdf�

Sole - Solea solea

Distinguishing features: The sole is an oval shaped flatfish with a small head and a small offset mouth.

The dorsal and anal fins are joined to the tail by a thin membrane. The upper side of the sole varies in

colour from dark brown to sandy brown with blotches and the underside being a creamy white. There

is a dark spot on the pectoral fin.

Size: The sole can grow to 60 cm and a weight of around three kilos although the majority of fish

encountered will not exceed 30 cm.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/soledover.htm

Distribution: The sole will be found where the seabed is sandy or muddy in depths of 10 to 100

metres. It is found mainly in the southern North Sea and down the Atlantic coast to the Mediterranean.

The sole tends to feed best after dark inshore.

Food: Although sole will occasionally feed on molluscs its main diet consists of worms and

crustaceans.

Baits: Smallish neat ragworm, black lug or blow lug baits are the most effective bait for sole.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/soledover.htm�


Sole Solea solea Tunge Tunga Søtunge, tunge Seezunge, Zunge Lammzunge

Sole


Tong Lenguado Sogliola Solye ya Not available Linguado

Regional Names - Slips

Turbot - Scophthalmus maximus

Distinguishing features: The turbot is a wide bodied flatfish with the eyes on the left side of its head.

The body is without scales but there are boney tubercles on it although these are sometimes only on

the underside. Only the tips of the dorsal fin are outwith the membrane. Colouration varies according

to the habitat but it’s generally a sandy brown with darker spots which extend onto the tail fin. The

dorsal fin has 57-71 rays and the anal one 43-52.

Size: Turbot are the largest of the flat fish other than Halibut and can reach lengths of one metre and a

weight of 25 kg.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/turbot.htm

Distribution: The turbot can be found in the eastern North Atlantic, North Sea, and Baltic Sea and down

to the Mediterranean. It inhabits water from the shoreline to depths of around 55 metres where the

seabed is composed of sand, gravel, crushed shells or a mixture of these. Larger specimens are found

on offshore banks. They are also found in the scour adjacent to wrecks.

Food: Turbot feed almost exclusively on fish, particularly sandeels, herring, whiting and sprats.

http://www.efsa.co.uk/record/turbot.htm�

Bait: Long thin fillets of mackerel or launce are a favourite bait as are live or dead large sandeels.


Turbot Psetta maxima Piggvar Piggvar Pighvarre Steinbutt Turbot


Tarbot Rodaballo Rombo chiodat Belokóryj páltus Sandhverfa Pregado

Documents

Book of Saltwater Species - Planet Sea Fishing · Distinguishing features: The black-mouthed dogfish is a small member of the shark family and has the typical shark shape. It has